If your GP has mentioned a “291,” or you’ve seen it on a referral, you might be wondering what it means. Medicare item 291 is a specific type of psychiatric assessment — and understanding it helps you know what to expect.
What item 291 is
Item 291 is a Medicare item number for a comprehensive psychiatric assessment and management plan. In practice, it means your GP refers you to a psychiatrist for a thorough one-off (or limited) assessment. The psychiatrist reviews your situation in depth and prepares a detailed management plan and report, which is sent back to your GP to guide your ongoing care.
It’s often used as an efficient way to get specialist input when a full ongoing psychiatric relationship isn’t necessary — the psychiatrist assesses, advises, and your GP continues to manage your care with that expert plan in hand.
What a 291 assessment involves
- A detailed assessment of your mental health, history and current difficulties
- Consideration of diagnosis and contributing factors
- A written management plan with recommendations — which may cover treatment, medication guidance and next steps
- A report back to your referring GP
The corresponding item 293 covers a review of that plan.
Why it’s useful
For many people, a 291 assessment provides the best of both worlds: specialist psychiatric expertise to clarify what’s going on and set the right direction, combined with the accessibility and continuity of care through your own GP. It can be quicker and more accessible than establishing ongoing psychiatric care, particularly via telehealth.
How to access one
You’ll need a referral from your GP specifically for a 291 assessment, which also enables the Medicare rebate. Our online psychiatry service can provide this kind of comprehensive telehealth assessment Australia-wide. Read about fees and Medicare, how to see a psychiatrist, or book an appointment.
This article is general information, not medical or billing advice. Confirm current Medicare details with your GP or provider.